What is generic drug?
It is a bioequivalent copy that is identical to the original brand drug in dosage, safety, and strength, as well as route of administration, quality, performance, and intended use.
How do we differentiate original brand drug and generic drug?
Contact physician or pharmacist.
Are generic drugs as safe as original brand drug?
Yes. Based on the FDA (Food & Drug Administration) requirement, the manufacturing of generic drug is same as the requirement for original brand drug as both are according to the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) regulations, thus the generic medication has the same benefits, risks and bioequivalence as the original brand drug.
Does every original brand drug have a generic version?
No. Original brand drugs are generally covered under patent protection around 20 years from the date of patent submission. A generic version of medication can only be introduced by other pharmaceutical company when expiration of the patent with the approval and thorough testing by FDA.
Is there any difference in terms of price?
Yes, cost of generic drugs is generally cheaper.
FOO JE TENG (PHARMACIST)
References:
1. FDA.gov. What you want to know about generic drugs. www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/BuyingUsingMedicineSafely/UnderstaningGenericDrugs/UCM169283.pdf.
Accessed February 7, 2016.
2. Patients’ beliefs about generic medicines in Malaysia.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4282766/.
Published on 2014 Mar 15.
